Are you asking for what you want in business, or are you simply letting your business happen to you? 

No matter what you're doing in business, you'll need to learn to master the art of asking for what you want. Let me explain more in a second, but I have to start with the truth:  

>> I was NEVER the type of person who asked for things.  Mostly I just HOPED people would see what I needed, and then offer it.<<  

Or sometimes I’d work or volunteer or help others in hopes that they’d want to help me out in return.  

And guess what?  

It never worked out the way I hoped.  

It wasn’t because other people were mean or selfish. In fact, looking back, I don’t think they even knew what I needed.  

Why?  Because I didn’t ask for it.

Two years ago, I invited my friend Lewis Howes on my podcast, the Jasmine Star Show, to discuss what greatness means in business, how to take control of your business, and getting what you want. 

In the episode, Lewis defined greatness as discovering your unique talents and gifts and then pursuing your dreams by using those gifts. 

And you know what? 

>>Sometimes using those gifts requires you to get uncomfortable.<<

Whether it's having a difficult conversation with a client who doesn’t want to pay you what you're worth, asking for the sale on social media, or pitching a collaboration to a fellow business owner, it's important to know the value to bring others and be able to convey it effectively!

So, let’s dive into 3 tactical tips for asking for what you want.  

Lead with value

How does asking for what you want benefit them? 

It’s important to create win-win opportunities whenever possible like in a collaboration with another business owner, when pitching yourself for a podcast, or selling your product or service. 

Always be sure to show that you’ve considered how this can benefit them and it will bring value to their life because it can’t be one-sided or seem like you’re out to get a bigger piece of the pie!  

If you’re asking for something and can show that it’s a win for them, you’re much more likely to get what you want.

Be Direct

You know I love to tell it like it is, but this is not just a part of my personality, it’s also a crucial reason for my business success. 

Don’t beat around the bush when presenting an opportunity to someone and use the least amount of words possible. 

Be clear about what you’re asking for and when you want it. If you’re not specific about the details, how can anyone give you what you need?

No Means Not Now

It took me a long time to realize this, but when a potential client, business owner, or anyone else you’re asking to work with says “No,” that doesn’t usually mean “no forever.” 

I always choose to think it means “No, not right now.” 

When you look at your propositions, or what you’re asking for, from this lens, it makes sense to follow up with these people in a few months to see if they’ve changed their mind, and ask for what you want again. Except this time, lead with even more value.  

Whenever I invite business owners to join Social Curator, my subscription for social media marketing resources, and they don’t join, I remind myself that “if not now, then soon….” Soon you’ll join and when I ask again, I’ll add an extra juicy bonus to get you to reconsider!

At the end of the day, the most important part of asking for what you want is to lead with value, be direct, and to do the work consistently. 

Because when you do this, you become someone people want and need to say yes to!

So go take action and ask for what you want. 

• Don’t worry about doing it “right” because mistakes are a part of the process.
• You will hear a lot of “no’s” from those you reach out to. 
• You will participate in collaborations that are not a win-win, despite your best efforts.

>>But if you don’t start, you won’t make mistakes. And if you don’t make mistakes, you won’t learn how to do better next time.<<

I can’t wait to see how you take action on what you learned to elevate your brand, increase your sales, build relationships and create win-win opportunities for you and another business owner. If you’re ready to ask for what you want, be sure to dive into this free guide on How to Collaborate With Another Business Owner, made with just that purpose in mind. Click >>HERE<< to download it and start getting what you want in business… and life!